Kano State Youth Groups Seek Inclusion in Governance, Offer Support to Governor Abba Yusuf
A coalition of Kwankwasiyya-affiliated youth groups in Kano State has expressed willingness to support Governor Abba Yusuf, provided the administration addresses their concerns about marginalization and exclusion from governance. The youths made their stance known at an engagement forum in Kano, where they emphasized that their dissatisfaction stems from the lack of inclusion of young people in government programs and decision-making.
According to Aminu Abdullahi, spokesperson for the groups, thousands of young people played crucial roles in the success of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) during the 2023 general elections, but felt abandoned after the victory. “Many youths sacrificed their time, energy, and resources to ensure the success of the movement and the party, only to be left out of consultations, appointments, and empowerment opportunities,” Abdullahi explained.
The perceived exclusion has fueled frustration among supporters, with Abdullahi stressing that neglecting youth participation could have wider social implications, including increased crime, restiveness, and social tension. He emphasized that genuine youth engagement is critical to addressing these issues and that young people will naturally support the administration if their concerns are addressed.
Abdullahi dismissed suggestions that the youths were being coerced or induced to take sides, stating that their stance is driven purely by interests and expectations. “Politics is about interest, and if the government listens to the youths, empowers them, and gives them a sense of belonging, they will support the administration,” he said.
The engagement forum, which was attended by representatives of 32 youth groups and over 400 youths, saw the distribution of empowerment support valued at N20 million. Abdullahi disclosed that deliberations among the youth groups showed a willingness to align with the governor if their concerns were addressed, highlighting the need for inclusive governance and youth participation in decision-making.
The development comes amid ongoing political realignments in Kano State, where the Kwankwasiyya Movement and the NNPP have significant followings. The youths’ demand for inclusion in governance underscores the importance of youth participation in politics and the need for governments to engage with young people to address their concerns and harness their energy and creativity.
